French-Ivorian striker Samuel Dié signs first professional contract with Lens

French-Ivorian striker Samuel Dié has taken a major step in his career after signing his first professional contract with RC Lens, extending his stay with the French club for the next three years.

The Ligue 1 side confirmed the agreement as part of its plans for the future, rewarding one of the academy’s most promising attacking talents after his steady rise through the club’s youth ranks.

Dié joined Lens in 2023 following his early development at Le Mans and has since progressed through every stage of the club’s academy system. His performances and continued development have now earned him a place among the club’s professional ranks.

The young forward expressed his delight after putting pen to paper on the deal, describing the moment as the fulfilment of a long-held ambition.

“It is an immense source of pride and an incredible honor to sign my first professional contract here. Since my arrival in 2023, RC Lens has given me all the tools I need to develop.

I want to thank my coaches, my teammates, and the management for this confidence. Indeed, wearing this legendary jersey at the professional level is a dream come true. Therefore, I will continue to give my all to do these colors proud.”

The contract represents a significant milestone for the Ivory Coast-born attacker, who first impressed with the club’s Under-19 side before continuing his progression through the development system.

His performances with the Elite group during the most recent campaign further strengthened his reputation as one of the club’s emerging talents.

Dié finished the season with 15 goals in 35 appearances, statistics that helped underline his potential and contributed to the club’s decision to secure his long-term future.

Looking ahead, the striker acknowledged that the next stage of his development will require even greater commitment and consistency.

“My statistics from last season with the Elite group give me a lot of confidence. However, I know that the professional level demands even more discipline and efficiency.

Furthermore, my time with the U19s taught me patience and hard work. In short, I’m ready to take on the challenge, learn alongside the first-team stars, and find the back of the net at Bollaert.”

The new contract ensures that Lens retain one of their promising young forwards as Dié prepares to make the transition from academy football to the professional game, with the next three years offering him the opportunity to continue his development at the club.